Three observations following UF’s 94-57 exhibition win over Division II Tampa at the O’Connell Center:
— The Gators need to do a much better job on the defensive glass before the season starts on Nov. 13 against Gardner-Webb. Granted, Tampa had decent size for a Division II team, but Florida still allowed an alarming 16 offensive rebounds. While redshirt sophomore forward Keith Stone had six rebounds, he also dropped a few more potential boards in traffic.
— Though Florida had a negative assist-to-turnover ratio for the game (9-15), the Gators did a better job finishing off drives then they did against Jacksonville. Sophomore center Gorjok Gak was able to score on a spin move on a drive the line, while freshman point guard Mike Okauru (5-6) was able to finish on drives to the basket. By spreading the floor with multiple shooters, the Gators should be able to open driving lanes to the basket.
— Freshman forward Chase Johnson, in his first action in close to two weeks since suffering a concussion, missed to some shots early but displayed athleticism throughout the game with 6 points, 7 rebounds and 3 blocked shots. The 6-foot-9 Johnson has good leaping ability and rebounding instincts and should be able to help the Gators on the glass until center John Egbunu returns in January.
